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Intracellular calcium (Ca2+) is ubiquitous to cell signaling across biology. While existing fluorescent sensors and reporters can detect activated cells with elevated Ca2+ levels, these approaches require implants to deliver light to deep tissue, precluding their noninvasive use in freely behaving animals. Here we engineered an enzyme-catalyzed approach that rapidly and biochemically tags cells with elevated Ca2+ in vivo. Ca2+-activated split-TurboID (CaST) labels activated cells within 10 min with an exogenously delivered biotin molecule. The enzymatic signal increases with Ca2+ concentration and biotin labeling time, demonstrating that CaST is a time-gated integrator of total Ca2+ activity. Furthermore, the CaST readout can be performed immediately after activity labeling, in contrast to transcriptional reporters that require hours to produce signal. These capabilities allowed us to apply CaST to tag prefrontal cortex neurons activated by psilocybin, and to correlate the CaST signal with psilocybin-induced head-twitch responses in untethered mice.

Voltage-responsive biosensors capable of monitoring real-time adsorption behavior of biological analytes onto electroactive surfaces offer attractive strategies for disease detection, separations, and other adsorption-dependent analytical techniques. Adsorption of biological analytes onto electrically switchable surfaces can be modelled using neutravidin and biotin. Here, we report self-assembled monolayers formed from voltage-switchable biotinylated molecules on gold surfaces with tunable sensitivity to neutravidin in response to applied voltages. By using electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM), we demonstrated real-time switchable behavior of these bio-surfaces and investigate the range of sensitivity by varying the potential of the same surfaces from −400 mV to open circuit potential (+155 mV) to +300 mV. We compared the tunability of the mixed surfaces to bare Au surfaces, voltage inert surfaces, and switchable biotinylated surfaces. Our results indicate that quartz crystal microbalance allows real-time changes in analyte binding behavior, which enabled observing the evolution of neutravidin sensitivity as the applied voltage was shifted. EQCM could in principle be used in kinetic studies or to optimize voltage-switchable surfaces in adsorption-based diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Holocarboxylase synthase (HCS) deficiency is an extremely rare metabolic disorder typically presenting as severe neonatal metabolic acidosis, lethargy, hypotonia, vomiting, and seizures. This report describes two siblings in a family with late-onset forms of HCS deficiency. The younger sister presented at the age of 11 years and manifested as acute metabolic acidosis, which promptly resolved following rehydration and biotin administration. The results of the organic urine profile confirmed multiple carboxylase deficiency, and genetic testing revealed a novel pathogenic variant in the HLCS gene (NM_000411.8) in the homozygous state: c.995A>G; p. (Gln332Arg). No further decompensation was observed for her during the 3-year follow-up period. His older brother was diagnosed at the age of 23 years-old through biochemical tests, without any history of acidotic decompensation. A mini-review of HCS deficiency with late onset (>1 year) or early onset (<1 month) revealed that splice variants are associated with late onset, while both variants p. (Leu216Arg) and p. (Leu237Pro) are associated with early onset. However, the majority of genotypes do not show a clear correlation with the timing of HCS deficiency onset. The most significant point here is the description of extremely late-onset cases of HCS deficiency. This can prompt metabolic investigations and raise suspicion of this rare disease in cases of unexplained metabolic acidosis, even beyond early childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Biotin causes negative interference with thyroglobulin measurement using the Access thyroglobulin assay. Recently, Beckman reformulated the thyroglobulin assay to overcome biotin interference. We investigated the effect of biotin on both current and newly formulated assays. Methods Four serum pools were prepared using specimens containing various amounts of thyroglobulin. Then aliquots of each pool were supplemented with various amounts of biotin, and thyroglobulin concentrations were measured by both the current and the new assays. In addition, 3 volunteers ingested 10 mg biotin, and specimens were drawn before and 2 hours after taking biotin. Thyroglobulin concentrations before and 2 hours after taking biotin were measured by both assays. Results In the presence of biotin, thyroglobulin concentrations were reduced significantly using the current assay, but no significant change was observed using the newly formulated assay. We observed similar results in vivo. Conclusions The newly formulated thyroglobulin assay by Beckman is free from biotin interference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heading date 3a (Hd3a, a FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) ortholog from rice) is well known for its important role in rice (Oryza sativa L.), controlling floral transition under short-day (SD) conditions. Although the effect of Hd3a on promoting branching has been found, the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. In this report, we overexpressed an Hd3a and BirAG (encoding a biotin ligase) fusion gene in rice, and found that early flowering and tiller bud outgrowth was promoted in BHd3aOE transgenic plants. On the contrary, knockout of Hd3a delayed flowering and tiller bud outgrowth. By using the BioID method, we identified multiple Hd3a proximal proteins. Among them, D14, D53, TPR1, TPR2, and TPRs are central components of the strigolactone signaling pathway, which has an inhibitory effect on rice tillering. The interaction between Hd3a, on the one hand, and D14 and D53 was further confirmed by the bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC), yeast two-hybrid (Y2H), and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) methods. We also found that Hd3a prevented the degradation of D53 induced by rac-GR24 (a strigolactone analog) in rice protoplasts. RT-qPCR assay showed that the expression levels of genes involved in strigolactone biosynthesis and signal transduction were altered significantly between WT and Hd3a overexpression (Hd3aOE) or mutant (hd3a) plants. OsFC1, a downstream target of the strigolactone signaling transduction pathway in controlling rice tillering, was downregulated significantly in Hd3aOE plants, whereas it was upregulated in hd3a lines. Collectively, these results indicate that Hd3a promotes tiller bud outgrowth in rice by attenuating the negative effect of strigolactone signaling on tillering and highlight a novel molecular network regulating rice tiller outgrowth by Hd3a. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptavidin is a tetrameric protein with high specificity and affinity for biotin. The interaction between avidin and biotin has become a valuable tool in nanotechnology. In recent years, the site‐specific biotin modification of proteins using biotin ligases, such as BirA, has attracted attention. This study established an in vivo method for achieving the complete biotinylation of target proteins using a single plasmid co‐expressing BirA and its target proteins. Specifically, a biotin‐modified protein was produced in Escherichia coli strain BL21(DE3) using a single plasmid containing genes encoding both BirA and a protein fused to BirA's substrate sequence, Avitag. This approach simplifies the production of biotinylated proteins in E. coli and allows the creation of various biotinylated protein types through gene replacement. Furthermore, the biotin modification rate of the obtained target protein could be evaluated using Native‐PAGE without performing complicated isolation operations of biotinylated proteins. In Native‐PAGE, biotin‐modified proteins and unmodified proteins were confirmed as clearly different bands, and it was possible to easily derive the modification rate from the respective band intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work implements a method for specific in vivo biotinylation of recombinant proteins M1 and B7 of the variola virus during biosynthesis in CHO-K1 cells. To do this, co-expression of the biotin ligase BirA and target genes encoding the ectodomains of the M1 and B7 proteins with a C-terminal avi-tag was carried out in CHO-K1 cells in the presence of biotin in the culture medium. The optimal biotin concentration for the expression of the M1 and B7 proteins was 125 μM. The production of biotinylated recombinant proteins has been complicated by low yields. To increase the production of target proteins, low molecular weight enhancers were added to the culture medium: lithium acetate, sodium valproate, and caffeine. The enhancers increased the yield of the target protein by 1.3–4.9 times and did not affect the efficiency of biotinylation. The highest yield of biotinylated protein was achieved with the simultaneous addition of a concentration of 10 mM lithium acetate and 2.5 mM sodium valproate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Our objectives were to develop and evaluate an integrated system consisting of a lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) and an electronic portable imaging device for determination of pregnancy status of cows based on plasma concentrations of pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB). Experiment 1 was conducted to test the performance of the LFIA for PSPB (PSPB-LFIA), whereas experiment 2 was conducted to evaluate the performance of the integrated system, including both the LFIA and imaging device. The PSPB-LFIA strips were made of nitrocellulose membrane with polystreptavidin, anti-mouse antibody, europium anti-PSPB conjugates, and biotin PSPB. After adding buffer and plasma in a 96-well plate, strips were dipped to initiate flow and were read in a fluorescence microscope to estimate PSPB concentrations based on the test-to-control line signal (T/C ratio). The T/C ratio of standards was linearly associated with PSPB (R2 = 0.99 in both experiments) concentrations. To test the ability to identify pregnant cows of the PSPB-LFIA only or the integrated system, plasma samples were collected and transrectal ultrasonography (TUS) was conducted 29 to 35 d after AI in lactating Holstein cows (experiment 1: n = 83; experiment 2: n = 205). A cow was considered pregnant (Preg) if concentrations of PSPB in plasma obtained by ELISA were ≥2 ng/mL or if an embryo was visible by TUS. In experiment 1, the accuracy of the PSPB-LFIA compared with ELISA was 92.7% (91.2% sensitivity [Se]; 96.1% specificity [Sp]; 98.1% positive predictive value [PPV]; 83.3% negative predictive value [NPV]) and compared with TUS was 90.4% (100% Se; 78.9% Sp; 84.9% PPV; 100% NPV). The agreement between LFIA and ELISA (kappa = 0.84; 95% CI 0.71–0.96) or LFIA and TUS (kappa = 0.80; 95% CI 0.67–0.93) as methods to classify cows as Preg or nonpregnant (Non-Preg) was high. In experiment 2, the accuracy of the PSPB-LFIA compared with ELISA was 96.1% (93.8% Se; 100% Sp; 100% PPV; 90.5% NPV) and compared with TUS was 92.2% (99.0% Se; 84.7% Sp; 87.6% PPV; 98.8% NPV). The agreement between LFIA and ELISA (kappa = 0.92; 95% CI 0.86–0.97) or LFIA and TUS (kappa = 0.84; 95% CI 0.77–0.92) as methods to classify cows as Preg or Non-Preg was high. We conclude that a system integrating a fluorescence-based LFIA and an optical reader was effective for classifying cows as pregnant or not pregnant based on estimations of plasma concentrations of PSPB. This novel system serves as a platform for further development of on-farm pregnancy testing tools based on measurement of biomarkers of pregnancy in bodily fluids of cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biotin is essential for metabolizing the three major nutrients and is vital for animal growth and development. Industrially, biotin production has relied on chemical synthesis, a method fraught with disadvantages including complex processes, environmental risks, and high costs. Consequently, researchers have increasingly recognized the benefits of biosynthesizing biotin. Native transcriptional regulation and metabolic bottlenecks restrict biotin production. Replacing the native promoter and bioO with the constitutive P 43 promoter, along with swapping the native birA for a non-regulatory variant from Mycobacterium tuberculosis , significantly upregulated biotin biosynthetic gene expression, effectively bypassing native transcriptional regulation. Subsequent strategies to bypass the inefficient native BioW included knocking out ydbM in the β-oxidation pathway—a potential pimeloyl-CoA degrader, expressing heterologous bioW genes, and introducing alternative pimeloyl-ACP biosynthetic pathways, collectively increasing biotin titers to 6.91 mg/L. This study demonstrates a multi-faceted approach to overcoming metabolic and regulatory barriers, providing a template for enhancing biotin production in B. subtilis , with implications for the broader field of microbial biotechnology. [Display omitted] • Effective bypass of transcriptional repression mechanism of biotin. • Screening of heterologous bioW genes to bypass the inefficient native BioW. • Incorporation of pimeloyl-ACP biosynthetic pathways to bypass the inefficient native BioW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfluidics has emerged as a highly promising technology for miniaturizing chemical analysis laboratory into a single, small lab-on-a-chip device. In our previous research, we have developed an innovative approach to particle-based microfluidics by screen printing silica gel microparticles onto glass substrate to create a patterned porous material. In this article we demonstrate a multi-step sample analysis – combining conventional and affinity thin-layer chromatography with competitive assay for detection – along with blister reservoirs that can be integrated into the particle-based microfluidic point-of-care test. This integration achieves high analytical performance and makes the test simple to use. Biotin was chosen as the exemplary analyte, because measuring it is crucial in immunoassays, where high circulating biotin concentrations can lead to false results. This research also addresses the challenge of biotin interference in immunoassays by making it possible to produce rapid biotin tests. Need for these tests is particularly critical in emergency situations. Validation of the developed test demonstrated a dynamic range of 0.09 to 0.24 µg ml− 1 and that artificial urine matrix does not have significant effect on the results. This would make it possible to assess whether the biotin interference occurs in urine sample immunoassays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: DNA 5‐formylcytosine (5fC) is a prominent epigenetic modification within biological systems. Recent investigations have shed light on its pivotal role in governing cell fate, gene expression, and disease pathways. However, our comprehension of the precise control of the 5fC site structure to influence its functionality remains limited. In this study, we have successfully achieved precise control over 5fC activity by harnessing the interaction between streptavidin and biotin. This research underscores the potential application of interactions between biomacromolecules and small molecules in advancing the field of DNA epigenetic functional regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: DNA 5‐formylcytosine (5fC) is a prominent epigenetic modification within biological systems. Recent investigations have shed light on its pivotal role in governing cell fate, gene expression, and disease pathways. However, our comprehension of the precise control of the 5fC site structure to influence its functionality remains limited. In this study, we have successfully achieved precise control over 5fC activity by harnessing the interaction between streptavidin and biotin. This research underscores the potential application of interactions between biomacromolecules and small molecules in advancing the field of DNA epigenetic functional regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Phages are viruses that infect prokaryotes and can shape microbial communities by lysis, thus offering applications in various fields. However, challenges exist in sampling, isolation and accurate prediction of the host specificity of phages as well as in the identification of newly replicated virions in response to environmental challenges. Methods: A new workflow using biorthogonal non-canonical amino acid tagging (BONCAT) and click chemistry (CC) allowed the combined analysis of phages and their hosts, the identification of newly replicated virions, and the specific tagging of phages with biotin for affinity chromatography. Results: Replication of phage λ in Escherichia coli was selected as a model for workflow development. Specific labeling of phage λ proteins with the non-canonical amino acid 4-azido-L-homoalanine (AHA) during phage development in E. coli was confirmed by LC-MS/MS. Subsequent tagging of AHA with fluorescent dyes via CC allowed the visualization of phages adsorbed to the cell surface by fluorescence microscopy. Flow cytometry enabled the automated detection of these fluorescent phage-host complexes. Alternatively, AHA-labeled phages were tagged with biotin for purification by affinity chromatography. Despite biotinylation the tagged phages could be purified and were infectious after purification. Discussion: Applying this approach to environmental samples would enable host screening without cultivation. A flexible and powerful workflow for the detection and enrichment of phages and their hosts in pure cultures has been established. The developed method lays the groundwork for future workflows that could enable the isolation of phage-host complexes from diverse complex microbial communities using fluorescence-activated cell sorting or biotin purification. The ability to expand and customize the workflow through the growing range of compounds for CC offers the potential to develop a versatile toolbox in phage research. This work provides a starting point for these further studies by providing a comprehensive standard operating procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rad6 is a canonical ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme known for its role in regulating chromosome-related cellular processes in yeast and has been proven to have multiple functions in Beauveria bassiana, including insect-pathogenic lifestyle, UV damage repair, and conidiation. However, previous studies have only reported the key role of Rad6 in regulating conidial production in a nutrient-rich medium, without any deep mechanism analyses. In this study, we found that the disruption of Rad6 leads to a profound reduction in conidial production, irrespective of whether the fungus is cultivated in nutrient-rich or nutrient-poor environments. The absence of rad6 exerts a suppressive effect on the transcription of essential genes in the central developmental pathway, namely, brlA, abaA, and wetA, resulting in a direct downregulation of conidiation capacity. Additionally, mutant strains exhibited a more pronounced decline in both conidial generation and hyphal development when cultured in nutrient-rich conditions. This observation correlates with the downregulation of the central developmental pathway (CDP) downstream gene vosA and the upregulation of flaA in nutrient-rich cultures. Moreover, single-transcriptomics analyses indicated that irregularities in biotin metabolism, DNA repair, and tryptophan metabolism are the underlying factors contributing to the reduced conidial production. Comprehensive dual transcriptomics analyses pinpointed abnormal biotin metabolism as the primary cause of conidial production decline. Subsequently, we successfully restored conidial production in the Rad6 mutant strain through the supplementation of biotin, further confirming the transcriptomic evidence. Altogether, our findings underscore the pivotal role of Rad6 in influencing biotin metabolism, subsequently impacting the expression of CDP genes and ultimately shaping the asexual life cycle of B. bassiana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis (UC) management is centred on 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) derivatives. Whether supplementing 5-ASA with nutraceuticals can provide real advantages in UC-relevant outcomes is unclear. This retrospective multicentre study compared clinical remission, response rates, and faecal calprotectin levels in a two-arm design, including patients treated with 5-ASA alone and those with additional H. erinaceus-based multi-compound supplementation. In the 5-ASA alone group, clinical response rates were 41% at three months (T1) and 60.2% at six months (T2), while corresponding clinical remission rates were 16.9% and 36.1%. In the nutraceutical supplementation group, clinical response rates were 49.6% (T1) and 70.4% (T2), with clinical remission rates of 30.4% (T1) and 50.9% (T2). No significant differences in clinical response rates between the groups at T1 (p = 0.231) and T2 (p = 0.143) emerged. Clinical remission rates differed significantly at both time points (p = 0.029 and p = 0.042, respectively). Faecal calprotectin levels decreased significantly in both groups during the retrospective follow-up (p < 0.05), and this was more pronounced in nutraceutical supplementation patients at both T1 (p = 0.005) and T2 (p = 0.01). No adverse events were reported. This multi-component nutraceutical supplementation offers real-world potential in controlling disease activity in patients with mild-to-moderate UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of biotin-functionalized transition metal complexes was prepared by iClick reaction from the corresponding azido complexes with a novel alkyne-functionalized biotin derivative ([Au(triazolatoR,R′)(PPh3)], [Pt(dpb)(triazolatoR,R′)], [Pt(triazolatoR,R′)(terpy)]PF6, and [Ir(ppy)(triazolatoR,R′)(terpy)]PF6 with dpb = 1,3-di(2-pyridyl)benzene, ppy = 2-phenylpyridine, and terpy = 2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine and R = C6H5, R′ = biotin). The complexes were compared to reference compounds lacking the biotin moiety. The binding affinity toward avidin and streptavidin was evaluated with the HABA assay as well as isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). All compounds exhibit the same binding stoichiometry of complex-to-avidin of 4:1, but the ITC results show that the octahedral Ir(III) compound exhibits a higher binding affinity than the square-planar Pt(II) complex. The antibacterial activity of the compounds was evaluated on a series of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial strains. In particular, the neutral Au(I) and Pt(II) complexes showed significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecium at very low micromolar concentrations. The cytotoxicity against a range of eukaryotic cell lines was studied and revealed that the octahedral Ir(III) complex was non-toxic, while the square-planar Pt(II) and linear Au(I) complexes displayed non-selective micromolar activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptavidin affinity grids provide strategies to overcome many commonly encountered cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) sample preparation challenges, including sample denaturation and preferential orientations that can occur due to the air-water interface. Streptavidin affinity grids, however, are currently utilized by few cryo-EM labs because they are not commercially available and require a careful fabrication process. Two-dimensional streptavidin crystals are grown onto a biotinylated lipid monolayer that is applied directly to standard holey-carbon cryo-EM grids. The high-affinity interaction between streptavidin and biotin allows for the subsequent binding of biotinylated samples that are protected from the air-water interface during cryo-EM sample preparation. Additionally, these grids provide a strategy for concentrating samples available in limited quantities and purifying protein complexes of interest directly on the grids. Here, a step-by-step, optimized protocol is provided for the robust fabrication of streptavidin affinity grids for use in cryo-EM and negative-stain experiments. Additionally, a trouble-shooting guide is included for commonly experienced challenges to make the use of streptavidin affinity grids more accessible to the larger cryo-EM community.

Avidin-biotin binding, the most robust non-covalent protein-ligand interaction occurring in nature, has wide-ranging applications in biotechnology. A frequent challenge in these applications is accurately determining the number of unoccupied biotin binding sites in avidin-containing fusion proteins. We delineate a novel assay protocol in miniaturized format to quantify available biotin binding sites based on the affinity of the anionic dye 4′-hydroxyazobenzene-2-carboxylic acid for biotin binding sites within avidin. We apply this assay as a quality control assay to evaluate the number of available biotin binding sites in different fusion protein production batches. This method offers a streamlined alternative to fluorescence-based assays commonly employed to assess biotin binding, is less time-consuming than other methods and is applicable to diverse fusion proteins.

[Display omitted] The rapid, precise identification and quantification of specific biomarkers, toxins, or pathogens is currently a key strategy for achieving more efficient diagnoses. Herein a dopamine-biotin monomer was synthetized and oxidized in the presence of hexamethylenediamine, to obtain adhesive coatings based on polydopamine-biotin (PDA-BT) on different materials to be used in targeted molecular therapy. Insight into the structure of the PDA-BT coating was obtained by solid-state 13C NMR spectroscopy acquired, for the first time, directly onto the coating, deposited on alumina spheres. The receptor binding capacity of the PDA-BT coating toward 4-hydroxyazobenzene-2-carboxylic acid/Avidin complex was verified by means of UV– vis spectroscopy. Different deposition cycles of avidin onto the PDA-BT coating by layer-by-layer assembly showed that the film retains its receptor binding capacity for at least eight consecutive cycles. Finally, the feasibility of PDA-BT coating to recognize cell lines with different grade of overexpression of biotin receptors (BR) was investigated by tumor cell capture experiments by using MCF-7 (BR+) and HL-60 (BR−) cell lines. The results show that the developed system can selectively capture MCF-7 cells indicating that it could represent a first approach for the development of future more sophisticated biosensors easily accessible, low cost and recyclable with the dual and rapid detection of both proteins and cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propionyl CoA carboxylase (PCC) is a multimeric enzyme composed of two types of subunits, α and β arranged in α6β6 stoichiometry. The α-subunit consists of an N-terminal carboxylase domain, a carboxyl transferase domains, and a C-terminal biotin carboxyl carrier protein domain (BCCP). The β-subunit is made up of an N- and a C- carboxyl transferase domain. During PCC catalysis, the BCCP domain plays a central role by transporting a carboxyl group from the α-subunit to the β-subunit, and finally to propionyl CoA carboxylase, resulting in the formation of methyl malonyl CoA. A point mutation in any of the subunits interferes with multimer assembly and function. Due to the association of this enzyme with propionic acidemia, a genetic metabolic disorder found in humans, PCC has become an enzyme of wide spread interest. Interestingly, unicellular eukaryotes like Leishmania also possess a PCC in their mitochondria that displays high sequence conservation with the human enzyme. Thus, to understand the function of this enzyme at the molecular level, we have initiated studies on Leishmania major PCC (LmPCC). Here we report chemical shift assignments of LmPCC BCCP domain using NMR. Conformational changes in LmPCC BCCP domain upon biotinylation, as well as upon interaction with its cognate biotinylating enzyme (Biotin protein ligase from L. major) have also been reported. Our studies disclose residues important for LmPCC BCCP interaction and function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aimed to establish an amplified luminescent proximity homogeneous assay linked immune sorbent assay (AlphaLISA) for detecting quinolones (QNS) residues in milk. The EDC/NHS active ester method was used to connect 6-aminocaproic acid as the spacer arm on the norfloxacin molecule to prepare biotin-modified norfloxacin hapten (Biotin-6AS-NOR), and QNS monoclonal antibody was coupled on the receptor microsphere. Biotin-6AS-NOR could compete with QNS in the sample to bind quinolone antibodies. A competitive indirect AlphaLISA for QNS residues in milk was established by optimizing the parameters including QNS antibody coupling amount on receptor microspheres, Biotin-6AS-NOR, the dosage of donor/receptor microspheres, and dilution schemes for milk samples. By using the 1:5 milk sample dilution scheme, the limit of detection and the limit of quantification of the established AlphaLISA for QNS in milk were 0.19 ng/mL and 0.46 ng/mL, respectively. The recovery values ranged from 85.97% and 110.11%, and the intraday and interday variation were both less than 10%. The cross-reactivity values for norfloxacin, enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, pefloxacin, ofloxacin, and lomefloxacin were all higher than 70%. In conclusion, the established AlphaLISA showed high sensitivity, accuracy and good repeatability, without the need of tedious wash steps throughout the detection process; therefore, it is easy to achieve automated detection of chemical hazards residue in milk and has high application and promotion value.

Background: Micronutrient deficiencies, including biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamin D, can lead to hair problems such as loss and thinning. This study explores the improvement of SesZen-BioTM, a natural biotin supplement derived from Sesbania grandiflora leaves, to give NI- SesZen-BioTM. Materials: The nature and structure of biotin in SesZen-BioTM were evaluated using C14 analysis and 1H NMR. Further, Sesbania grandiflora was subjected to an improved economic process to give NI-SesZen-BioTM. HPLTC-aided phytochemical profiling was performed for SesZen-BioTM, NI- SesZen-BioTM, and standard S. grandiflora leaf extract. The purity of d-biotin was quantified using HPLC. The dissolution profile of SesZen-BioTM and NI- SesZen-BioTM was tested to determine bioequivalence and compared versus synthetic biotin. Results: NMR and C14 analysis revealed that SesZen-BioTM contained 100% natural d-biotin. The yield for SesZen-BioTM and NI- SesZen-BioTM was found to be 17% and 18%, respectively, and both exhibited phytochemical profiles similar to standard extract. The release rate for SesZen-BioTM was similar till a dose of 500 mg and slowly decreased at higher concentrations (800-100mg). A 350 mg NI- SesZen-BioTM showed bioequivalence to 250 mg and 500 mg for SesZen-BioTM. Percent d-biotin content was 0.5% in SesZen-BioTM and 0.81% in NI- SesZen-BioTM. Conclusion: This new economically driven process yielded NI-SesZen-BioTM, with similar yield, higher biotin (100%natural) content, and similar dissolution profile but at a reduced dosage as compared to SesZen-BioTM and surpassed synthetic biotin with its sustained release format. Thus, NI- SesZen-BioTM is a promising solution for individuals seeking natural supplements for maintaining hair and skin heath.

Twenty Iraqi ewes aged between 2-3 years were used in the current study. All animals were raised in an animal field in the Fallujah city/Saqlawiyah area during the period from August 2022 to February 2023. The animals were divided randomly into 4 equal groups. They were fed naturally on one diet. The control group (T1) received no additional treatment, the second group (T2) was given an hCG-COX 100 I.U./ewe injection (after sponge removal), the third group (T3) was given 10 mg of biotin per ewe daily (for 30 days), and the fourth group (T4) was given 10 mg of biotin per ewe daily (for 30 days) along with an hCG-COX 100 I.U./ewe injection (after sponge removal). Blood samples for estradiol-17β and progesterone measurement were collected on days 0, 18, 48, 79, and 110, and for PAPPB on days 48 and 79 after mating.The results showed a significant increase in the estradiol-17β hormone (P

Numerous studies indicate that intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) can predispose individuals to metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adulthood. Several reports have demonstrated that pharmacological concentrations of biotin have therapeutic effects on MetS. The present study investigated the beneficial effects of prenatal biotin supplementation in a rat model of intrauterine caloric restriction to prevent cardiometabolic risk in adult female offspring fed fructose after weaning. Female rats were exposed to a control (C) diet or global caloric restriction (20%) (GCR), with biotin (GCRB) supplementation (2 mg/kg) during pregnancy. Female offspring were exposed to 20% fructose (F) in drinking water for 16 weeks after weaning (C, C/F, GCR/F, and GCRB/F). The study assessed various metabolic parameters including Lee's index, body weight, feed conversion ratio, caloric intake, glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, lipid profile, hepatic triglycerides, blood pressure, and arterial vasoconstriction. Results showed that GCR and GCRB dams had reduced weights compared to C dams. Offspring of GCRB/F and GCR/F dams had lower body weight and Lee's index than C/F offspring. Maternal biotin supplementation in the GCRB/F group significantly mitigated the adverse effects of fructose intake, including hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, hepatic steatosis, glucose and insulin resistance, hypertension, and arterial hyperresponsiveness. This study concludes that prenatal biotin supplementation can protect against cardiometabolic risk in adult female offspring exposed to postnatal fructose, highlighting its potential therapeutic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Materials and Methods Results Conclusion The etiology of telogen effluvium (TE) includes situations that may cause physiological stress, surgical trauma, inflammatory, infectious, iatrogenic causes, medications and nutritional deficiencies. TE has been associated with iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency and thyroid diseases. In recent years, the use of over‐the‐counter food supplements containing vitamins and minerals such as biotin, vitamin D, zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and selenium (Se) has been increasing in TE patients. The aim of this study is to investigate whether there are differences in nutritional status, vitamin and mineral levels by comparing individuals with TE and a control group.This case–control study included 90 female patients diagnosed with chronic telogen effluvium (CTE), and 90 female controls volunteered to participate in the study who consulted for reasons other than TE. Both groups aged 18 and over and applied to dermatology polyclinic between 01.09.2022 and 01.09.2023. A detailed anamnesis was taken from all patients, a hair pull test was performed, and TE was diagnosed after a dermoscopic examination was performed on all areas of the scalp. Then, serum vitamin D, Zn, Cu, Se levels and biotin levels in serum and urine were measured. Hemoglobin (Hb), ferritin, vitamin B12 and thyroid function tests were retrospectively scanned from the hospital database.It was determined that Zn levels were significantly lower in CTE patients than in controls. Se levels were found to be significantly higher in patients than in controls. There was no difference in Hb, ferritin, vitamin B12, thyroid function tests, vitamin D, Cu levels, serum and urine biotin levels between the two groups. Zn, Cu/Zn and Se levels were found to have statistically significant diagnostic performance in predicting the diagnosis of CTE. Cu/Zn ratio and Se value were found to be significant predictors of CTE.This study shows us that nutritional deficiencies are not as common as thought in patients diagnosed with TE. Other causes that may cause TE should be investigated by a detailed anamnesis and a good physical examination. After all, tests for suspected conditions should be performed and individualized treatment options should be created for each patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biotin and arginine play crucial roles in lipid metabolism and may offer promising interventions against obesity. This study examined the combined effect of magnesium biotinate (MgB) and inositol-stabilized arginine silicate complex (ASI) on obesity-related oxidative imbalance, inflammation, lipid metabolism and neuromodulation in rats on a high-fat diet (HFD). Forty rats were divided into five groups: (a) control: rats were fed a standard diet containing 12% of energy from fat; (b) HFD: rats were fed the HFD with 42% of energy from fat; (c) HFD + MgB: rats were fed the HFD and given 0.31 mg/kg body weight (BW) MgB, (d) HFD + ASI: rats were fed the HFD and were given 12.91 mg/kg BW ASI), and (e) HFD + MgB + ASI: rats were fed the HFD and given 0.31 mg/kg BW MgB and 12.91 mg/kg BW ASI). The combined administration of MgB and ASI reduced the levels of serum cholesterol, free fatty acid (FFA), and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as liver inflammatory cytokines, sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1-c (SREBP-1c), and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGR) proteins (P < 0.001) compared to HFD rats without supplementation. Moreover, this combination increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes (P < 0.05) and boosted the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), serotonin, dopamine (P < 0.001), as well as liver insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) (P < 0.001). These findings suggest that combining MgB and ASI could deter liver fat accumulation and enhance lipid metabolism in HFD-fed rats by modulating various metabolic pathways and neuromodulators related to energy metabolism. This combination demonstrates potential in addressing obesity and its related metabolic dysfunctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A major obstacle to targeted cancer therapy is identifying suitable targets that are specifically and abundantly expressed by solid tumors. Certain bacterial strains selectively colonize solid tumors and can deliver genetically encoded cargo molecules to the tumor cells. Here, we engineered bacteria to express monomeric streptavidin (mSA) in tumors, and developed a novel tumor pre-targeting system by visualizing the presence of tumor-associated mSA using a biotinylated imaging probe. Procedures: We constructed a plasmid expressing mSA fused to maltose-binding protein and optimized the ribosome binding site sequence to increase solubility and expression levels. E. coli MG1655 was transformed with the recombinant plasmid, expression of which is driven by the pBAD promotor. Expression of mSA was induced by L-arabinose 4 days after injection of bacteria into mice bearing CT26 mouse colon carcinoma cells. Selective accumulation of mSA in tumor tissues was visualized by optical imaging after administration of a biotinylated fluorescent dye. Counting of viable bacterial cells was also performed. Results: Compared with a conventional system, the novel expression system resulted in significantly higher expression of mSA and sustained binding to biotin. Imaging signals in tumor tissues were significantly stronger in the mSA-expressing group than in non-expressing group (P = 0.0005). Furthermore, the fluorescent signal in tumor tissues became detectable again after multiple inductions with L-arabinose. The bacterial counts in tumor tissues showed no significant differences between conditions with and without L-arabinose (P = 0.45). Western blot analysis of tumor tissues confirmed expression and binding of mSA to biotin. Conclusions: We successfully engineered tumor-targeting bacteria carrying a recombinant plasmid expressing mSA, which was targeted to, and expressed in, tumor tissues. These data demonstrate the potential of this novel tumor pre-targeting system when combined with biotinylated imaging probes or therapeutic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Biotin has widespread popularity as a hair supplement. We sought to review the literature regarding biotin's efficacy as a hair supplement. METHODS: We conducted a literature search of PubMed for articles specifically studying the use of oral biotin for hair growth or quality. Case reports and case series were excluded. RESULTS: Three studies met our inclusion criteria. The first study was the highest quality, with a double-blind and placebo-controlled study design, but their results found no difference between the biotin and placebo groups for hair growth. The other two studies investigated specific patient populations (patients on isotretinoin and female patients post-sleeve gastrectomy). Both studies were susceptible to multiple potential biases and neither had striking results in favor of biotin. LIMITATIONS: Our review is limited by lack of available studies. CONCLUSION: Given the widespread popularity of biotin as a hair supplement, one would presume that this claim must be grounded in strong evidence; however, there is a large discrepancy between the public's perception of its efficacy and the scientific literature. The utility of biotin as a hair supplement is not supported by high-quality studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency (HLCS deficiency, OMIM #253270) is an exceedingly rare metabolic disorder resulting in multiple carboxylase deficiencies owing to impaired biotin cycle. Clinical manifestations include severe metabolic acidosis, hyperammonemia, tachypnea, skin rash, alopecia, feeding problems, hypotonia, developmental delay, seizures, and, in severe cases, death. Methods and Results: An 8‐day‐old female neonate presented with severe lactic acidosis, necessitating sedation and mechanical ventilation. Despite receiving supportive care, no evident clinical improvement was observed, accompanied by the onset of generalized ichthyosis. Genetic analysis of actionable metabolic disorders revealed compound heterozygous variants of HLCS (NM_000411.8), specifically c.[710T>C (p.Leu237Pro)]; [1544G>A (p.Ser515Asn)], prompting the initiation of biotin mega‐dose therapy (10 mg/day). Remarkably, dramatic clinical improvement in lactic acidosis was observed the day after initiating biotin administration, leading to the discontinuation of mechanical ventilation within 6 days. The patient remained in stable condition during follow‐up, exhibiting normal growth and development along with consistently stable laboratory findings up to 18 months of age. Conclusion: Our case highlights the significance of early genetic testing in neonates with unexplained metabolic disorders to enable timely diagnosis and therapy initiation. Biotin therapy has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in improving the clinical condition of patients with HLCS deficiency, leading to favorable outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on consumer interest in dietary supplements in Türkiye through a Google Trends analysis. Material-Method: The search volumes of 30 selected terms were evaluated using Google Trends between March 18, 2018, and March 15, 2022. Results: During the study period, the term with the highest search volume was 'vitamin B12'. After the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic, search volumes for biotin, probiotics, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, iron, prebiotics, fish oil, collagen, vitamin A, multivitamins, vitamin E, lipoic acid, zinc, glutathione, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin D, iodine, melatonin, propolis, vitamin K, bromelain, and curcumin showed statistically significant increases (p<0.005). Conclusion: This study demonstrates an increased interest in dietary supplements in Türkiye following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings underscore the growing attention to dietary supplements during this period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bacillales: Bacillaceae) (Bt) has played a significant role in pest control, which is the most intensively studied, rapidly developed, and widely used insecticidal microorganism in recent years. However, due to the influence of environmental stress, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation and oxidative stress, its persistence is limited. Therefore, improving the stress resistance of Bt strains would be effective in prolonging the durability of related Bt products. Biotin is an important coenzyme that has been linked to stress responses in a variety of species. In this study, we successfully knocked down the bioC gene involved in biotin synthesis to further explore its function on the stress resistance of Bt. The removal of the target gene resulted in a decrease in Bt biotin content and a reduction in its survival rate under UV/oxidative stress. At the same time, the removal of bioC gene could reduce antioxidase activities. All of these observations demonstrated that biotin was functional for Bt stress resistance. This study therefore provides a theoretical basis for enriching Bt strain resistance genes and developing new Bt preparations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin and serves as an essential co-enzyme for five specific carboxylases. Holocarboxylase synthase (HCS) activates biotin and facilitates its covalent attachment to these enzymes, while biotinidase releases free biotin in the biotin cycle. The transport of biotin, primarily from the intestine, is mediated by the sodium-dependent multi-vitamin transporter (SMVT). Severe biotin deficiency leads to multiple carboxylase deficiency. Moreover, biotin is crucial to glucose and lipid utilization in cellular energy production because it modulates the expression of metabolic enzymes via various signaling pathways and transcription factors. Biotin also modulates the production of proinflammatory cytokines in the immune system through similar molecular mechanisms. These regulatory roles in metabolic and immune homeostasis connect biotin to conditions such as diabetes, dermatologic manifestations, and multiple sclerosis. Furthermore, deficiencies in biotin and SMVT are implicated in inflammatory bowel disease, affecting intestinal inflammation, permeability, and flora. Notably, HCS and probably biotin directly influence gene expression through histone modification. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the molecular aspects of biotin and associated molecules in diseases related to both acute inflammatory responses and chronic inflammation, and discuss the potential therapeutic applications of biotin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris L. syn. B. rapa), a widely cultivated leafy vegetable, faces significant challenges in annual production due to hightemperature stress, which adversely affects plant weight and quality. The need for an effective solution to mitigate these impacts is imperative for sustainable horticulture. This study explored the effects of a novel biofertilizer, natural soil biotin (NSB), on Chinese cabbage under high-temperature conditions. NSB, rich in organic matter-degrading enzymes, was applied to assess its impact on crop yield, growth, nutrient use efficiency, product quality, and safety. The study also examined the soil microbial community response to NSB application, particularly the changes in the rhizosphere soil's fungal population. The application of NSB led to an increase in the abundance of Oleomycetes, which was associated with a decrease in the diversity and abundance of harmful fungi in the rhizosphere soil. This microbial shift promoted the growth of Chinese cabbage, enhancing both plant weight and quality by fostering a more favorable growth environment. Furthermore, NSB was found to reduce lipid peroxidation in Chinese cabbage leaves under high-temperature stress (40°C/30°C, 16 h/8 h, 24 h) by boosting antioxidant enzyme activity and osmoregulatory substance content. The findings suggest that the NSB application offers a promising approach to environmentally friendly cultivation of Chinese cabbage during high-temperature seasons. It contributes to improving the crop's adaptation to climate change and soil degradation, supporting the development of sustainable agricultural practices. The integration of NSB into agricultural practices presents a viable strategy for enhancing the resilience of Chinese cabbage to high-temperature stress, thereby potentially increasing yield and improving the quality of the produce, which is crucial for the advancement of sustainable horticulture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Science & Technology of Food Industry is the property of Science & Technology of Food Industry Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Platelet radiolabeling with radioisotopes is currently used for human platelet recovery and survival studies. Biotinylation enables ex vivo post‐transfusion platelet function testing. Whether platelet biotinylation itself affects platelet function is controversial. Study Design and Methods: Platelet concentrates from healthy humans were stored for 6 days. Samples were obtained at 1 or 2 and 6 days, and platelets were labeled following a radiolabeling protocol using saline instead of radioactive indium‐111 (sham radiolabeling [sham‐RL]). Alternatively, a newly developed biotinylation protocol, a washing protocol, or an unmanipulated control sample were used. Platelet function was assessed by flow cytometry after stimulation with platelet agonists and labeling of platelets with platelet activation markers. To test whether platelets can be activated after transfusion, labeled platelets were transfused into nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency mice, and samples were obtained 1 h after transfusion. Results: The activation profile of biotinylated platelets was comparable to sham‐RL platelets before transfusion except for significantly less α‐degranulation and more phosphatidyl serine exposure on storage day 1/2. There was no significant difference between sham‐RL and biotinylated platelets on storage day 6. Sham‐RL and biotinylated platelets were significantly less activatable than washed and unmanipulated control platelets. After transfusion, the activation profile of biotinylated platelets was largely indistinguishable from unmanipulated ones. Discussion: The decrease in activation level in biotinylated platelets we and others observed appears mainly due to the physical manipulation during the labeling process. In conclusion, biotinylated platelets allow for post‐transfusion function assessment, a major advantage over radiolabeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the influence of vitamin B7 (biotin) at different concentrations (0.1, 0.3 and 0.5) mM on the micellisation behaviour of three different ionic liquids with different cationic headgroups, namely N-methylmorpholinium bromide [Mor1,12][Br], N-dodecyl-N-methylpyrrolidinium bromide [Pyrr1,12][Br], and 1-dodecyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide [C12mim][Br], at four different temperatures (298.15, 303.15, 308.15, and 313.15) K using electrical conductivity and surface tension measurements. The evaluated CMC values for the studied system were used to obtain information about the colloidal behavior of the ionic liquids in the presence of biotin. The different thermodynamic parameters were studied. Tensiometry was used to determine the interfacial properties. The parameters obtained were used to study the different types of interactions for micelle formation. The main objective of studying these interactions is to further utilize this type of mixture in pharmaceutical industry, medicinal chemistry, and bio industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current experiment evaluated the effects of different dietary carbohydrate: protein ratios (CHO: CP ratio) without or with biotin supplementation on the growth performance, body composition, serum biochemical parameters and intestinal morphology in Nile tilapia. Fingerlings were assigned to 6 treatments arranged as following; Group 1 (G1) fed the basal diet (BD) with a medium CHO: CP ratio (47:32); G2 with high CHO: CP ratio (57:21); G3 with low CHO: CP ratio (36:42); while G4, G5 and G6 had the same previous experimental design of the first 3 groups but with biotin supplementation (0.06 mg/kg diet). The growth performance was only assessed for the first 6 weeks, then the experiment continued to 4 months and ended by sampling for other parameters determined. Fish feeding on high CHO: CP ratio (57:21) significantly reduced the fish body weight, gain and feed intake (FI) (P ≤ 0.05), while improved the feed efficiency compared to the medium and low ratios. Biotin addition to the high or the medium ratios containing diets resulted in lower growth, increased FI and deteriorated the feed efficiency when compared to their control groups without biotin addition (P≤ 0.05). Different dietary CHO: CP ratios significantly altered tilapia body composition of nutrients (moisture, ether extract, and ash), serum parameters (glucose, triglyceride, low and very-low density lipoproteins) and the liver function enzymes (GPT and GOT) (P≤ 0.05). The relative mRNA expression of growth hormone receptor and insulin like growth factor were significantly upregulated in fish fed on the low and the high ratios containing diets respectively. In conclusion, feeding of the early fingerling of tilapia on the high CHO: CP ratio during the first 6 weeks of life resulted in lower growth, however, it showed a protein sparing effect. Supplementation of biotin (extra over the diet) was not recommended as it showed adverse effects on tilapia growth especially during the first periods of life, however it showed some beneficial effects on alleviating the high-dietary carbohydrateinduced effects. Feeding on medium CHO: CP ratio (47:32) or low ratio (36:42) would be recommended during the fry and early fingerling stage of tilapia while the high ratio (57:21) would be beneficial in the diet of late fingerlings or adult tilapia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this experiment were to evaluate the effects of supplementation of Nellore (Bos indicus) cows with β‐carotene + vitamins A + D3 + E + biotin on body condition score (BCS), oestrus, pregnancy, and foetal morphometry. Lactating cows (n = 497) from two herds were balanced for BCS and calving period [early calving (EC); late calving (LC)] and were assigned randomly to: Control (n = 251)—supplementation with a mineral supplement; and SUP (n = 246)—supplementation with the mineral supplement fed to control + β‐carotene (150 mg/day) + vitamin A (40,000 IU/day) + vitamin D3 (5000 IU/day) + vitamin E (300 mg/day) + biotin (20 mg/day). Cows were supplemented from Days −30 to 30 (Day 0 = timed artificial insemination; TAI). Pregnancy was diagnosed 30 days after TAI and foetal crown‐rump distance and thoracic diameter were measured at 30 and 77 days of gestation. Cows in the SUP treatment were more likely to have BCS ≥3.0 on Day 0 (63.0 ± 3.1 vs. 60.2 ± 3.1; p <.01) and were more likely to gain BCS from Days −30 to 30 (57.7 ± 3.3 vs. 44.1 ± 3.3%; p <.01). Fewer LC cows in the SUP treatment were detected in oestrus at the time of the first TAI (Control: LC: 75.4 ± 4.4 vs. SUP: LC: 64.0 ± 5.2 vs. Control: EC: 65.3 ± 4.0 vs. SUP: EC: 71.8 ± 3.7; p =.04). There was a tendency for the SUP treatment to increase pregnancy to the first TAI (64.2 ± 3.0 vs. 56.6 ± 3.1%; p =.08). A greater percentage of SUP cows was detected in oestrus at the time of the second TAI (70.1 ± 5.0 vs. 52.3 ± 4.8%; p =.01). The SUP treatment increased pregnancy to the second TAI among LC cows (SUP: LC: 75.9 ± 8.0% vs. Control: LC: 50.0 ± 8.3% vs. Control: EC: 52.0 ± 5.9% vs. SUP: EC: 41.4 ± 6.5%; p =.02). The SUP treatment increased foetal size (crown‐rump; p =.04 and thoracic diameter; p <.01) at 30 days of gestation and, despite decreasing crow‐rump length at 77 days after the first TAI among EC cows (p <.01), it increased the thoracic diameter at 77 days after the first TAI independent of calving season. Our results support that pregnancy establishment and foetal growth can be improved when grazing Nellore cows are supplemented with β‐carotene and vitamins A + D3 + E + biotin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gyermekgyógyászat is the property of Semmelweis Kiado and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Biotin (vitamin B7, or vitamin H) is a water-soluble B-vitamin that functions as a cofactor for carboxylases, i.e., enzymes involved in the cellular metabolism of fatty acids and amino acids and in gluconeogenesis; moreover, as reported, biotin may be involved in gene regulation. Biotin is not synthesized by human cells, but it is found in food and is also produced by intestinal bacteria. Biotin status/homeostasis in human individuals depends on several factors, including efficiency/deficiency of the enzymes involved in biotin recycling within the human organism (biotinidase, holocarboxylase synthetase), and/or effectiveness of intestinal uptake, which is mainly accomplished through the sodium-dependent multivitamin transporter. In the last years, administration of biotin at high/"pharmacological" doses has been proposed to treat specific defects/deficiencies and human disorders, exhibiting mainly neurological and/or dermatological symptoms and including biotinidase deficiency, holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency, and biotin–thiamine-responsive basal ganglia disease. On the other hand, according to warnings of the Food and Drug Administration, USA, high biotin levels can affect clinical biotin-(strept)avidin assays and thus lead to false results during quantification of critical biomarkers. In this review article, recent findings/advancements that may offer new insight in the abovementioned research fields concerning biotin will be presented and briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a system to detect multiple target biomolecules through sensing motif-tethered oligodeoxynucleotides. DNA-based molecular probes gave the primary amine motif upon reaction with the target biomolecules, glutathione (GSH) and H2O2. After labelling with biotin, the product DNAs were selectively collected to be quantified by qPCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of artificial receptors that combine ultrahigh‐affinity binding and controllable release for active guests holds significant importance in biomedical applications. On one hand, a complex with an exceedingly high binding affinity can resist unwanted dissociation induced by dilution effect and complex interferents within physiological environments. On the other hand, stimulus‐responsive release of the guest is essential for precisely activating its function. In this context, we expanded hydrophobic cavity surface of a hypoxia‐responsive azocalix[4]arene, affording Naph‐SAC4A. This modification significantly enhanced its aqueous binding affinity to 1013 M−1, akin to the naturally occurring strongest recognition pair, biotin/(strept−)avidin. Consequently, Naph‐SAC4A emerges as the first artificial receptor to simultaneously integrate ultrahigh recognition affinity and actively controllable release. The markedly enhanced affinity not only improved Naph‐SAC4A′s sensitivity in detecting rocuronium bromide in serum, but also refined the precision of hypoxia‐responsive doxorubicin delivery at the cellular level, demonstrating its immense potential for diverse practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of biotinidase deficiency (BTD). Methods Clinical data of 13 BTD patients were collected. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) was used for urine organic acid analysis, peripheral blood biotinidase (BT) activity was measured, and polymerase chain reaction-direct sequencing was performed to detect mutations in each exon of the BT gene and its flanking sequences. Patients were followed up regularly. Results All 13 patients had mutations in the BT gene, including 8 males and 5 females. The main clinical manifestations were recurrent hyperventilation (100%, 13 cases), rash (61.5%, 8 cases), and seizures (38.5%, 5 cases). Urine GC/MS analysis in 12 patients (92.3%) showed elevated 3-hydroxyisovaleric acid, blood gas analysis indicated persistent metabolic acidosis and hyperlactatemia. All patients were treated with biotin, and metabolic disturbances were corrected within 48 hours. The follow-up duration ranged from 1 to 11 years with an average of (4.681±2.739) years. No metabolic abnormalities recurred, and physical and intellectual development were normal. Conclusion Recurrent skin and mucosal damage, hyperventilation, recurrent seizures, metabolic acidosis, and hyperlactatemia are the main clinical features of BTD. Suspected patients should undergo early screening for blood and urine metabolites and biotinidase activity testing. Early initiation of biotin therapy has a significant therapeutic effect, and long-term follow-up shows a good prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]